Community leader and broadcaster Violi Calvert had been asked to help promote the registration for the National Monument for Migration located in Sydney.
She is one of the few community leaders and migrants to Australias including the late community leader Atty Lolita Farmers who was known in the multicultural community whose names are inscribed in what is referred to as “Welcome Wall” monument.
This year when the 75th anniversary of the Philippine Australian Bilateral Relations is being remembered, our kababayans’ contributions to what Australia is now have been acknowledged by government officials and community organisations. In the same token, the Fil-Aussies have expressed their gratitude for what Australia has given them and their families.
Not all the members of the Fil-Aus community may be aware of the government’s initiative formally recognising the contribution of migrants to the building of modern Australia through the Welcome Wall. The Welcome Wall which was elevated to be the Australian National Maritime Museum in March this year collects and exhibits stories of Australia’s migrants and recognises donors to its Migration Heritage Fund on its National Monument.
Over 30,000 names already appear on the 84 bronze panels that are joined together and run down the northern promenade of the museum, facing Pyrmont Bay. There is an appeal for people to register themselves or honour loved ones who have migrated to Australia to ensure their personal stories are held in this important national collection.
This can be part of our offering for the 75th anniversary of the Philippine Australian bilateral relations. It is one way to give back to Australia in return for all the good things we enjoy. Register before 30 June to be a part of the next special unveiling ceremony.
In n return for your donation of $500, you will receive:
• A personal inscription in bronze on Australia’s National Monument to Migration (previously known as ‘Welcome Wall’)
• Dedicated online profile page
• A profile that can be securely managed and shared with friends and family
• Research functionality: search other names who may have arrived via the same vessel / time
• Exclusive invitation to an unveiling ceremony for new inscriptions on the wall
• A tax-deductible receipt.
Here is the link to donate to the National Monument that will also set the donor up with their online profile. https://store.anmm.gov.au/museum/welcome-wall/national-monument-donation/
In our diversity, there is unity.